Thursday, July 27, 2017

Ways to boost the dark style blogging community

I kind of notice that bloggers come and go in cycles (and dark fashion too--people leave and come back. That's life.) and sometimes the scene could use some community-building. I have some ideas.



For bloggers with few followers:

1. You don't have a lot of influence in the blogging community, but that's ok. As long as the right people see you and keep coming back, you'll grow. Offer good, original content and that bring readers.

2. Participate in community challenges.  GIY (Goth It Yourself) has monthly challenges (the June/July theme of "It Takes Two" is going on now. This is a great way to meet other bloggers and have them meet you. If you know of anyone else doing challenges, leave a comment!

3. Post often, and comment on other blogs. No one will find you if you can't be seen on others' pages or in a subscriber's feed. Also the community is more vibrant and motivated when people comment.

An old post from a Red and Black Week challenge 
 For bloggers with a lot of followers:

1. Consider hosting challenges. You've got the numbers to make this work.

2. Consider interviewing other bloggers or reaching out for a quote. Maybe you are writing about a scene in another country--reach out to someone who might live there.

For everyone:

1. Mention other bloggers in your posts. Were you inspired by someone? Was there a useful DIY or tip that you followed? Link back to that person.

2. I (and I'm sure others) are always on the lookout for cool bloggers, so leave a comment with cool dark fashion style-related blogs that you think I should follow. If you have any ideas about growing the community, leave a post as well!